MAIDSTONE Chrysler and Jeep dealer Whitehouse has begun the countdown to the most eagerly-awaited event of the year - the launch of the Chrysler Crossfire on November 15.

Customers will be given a taste of things to come when some real-life American mean machines roar into the showroom this weekend (November 1 and 2).

A classy Chrysler Viper GTS coupé and a stomping Plymouth Prowler will go on display at the Broadway dealership.

Mark Wood, Dealer Principal of Whitehouse, explained: “We are all gearing up for the launch of the Crossfire, which will go with a bang on November 15. But the Chrysler Sports Car weekend will give visitors the chance to see what Chrysler has already produced and prepare them for what is to come.”

The Viper is a superb specimen of Motown muscle. It can sprint to 60mph from rest in little over four seconds, going on to hit a top speed of more than 170mph. Its monstrous 415bhp engine ensures Viperformance every time.

And the distinctive, retro-style Prowler will not fail to win over visitors to the showroom. Production of the rare 3.5-litre, V6-engined motor was discontinued in 2002, making this a sight not to be missed.

Mark added: “Response to the Crossfire has been phenomenal and we have had to set up a waiting list to cope with demand. We are sure there will be quite a few requests for test drives in coming weeks.”

The stunning Crossfire has a top speed of 140mph and can sprint from 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds. The two-seater coupé will be priced at £27,260 for the six-speed manual and £28,500 for the five-speed automatic.